1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1989 Chrysler TC
To start off, 1989 Chrysler TC is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler TC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler TC (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler TC should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler TC weights approximately 931 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Caterham 1700 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Caterham 1700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler TC, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1989 Chrysler TC (271 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler TC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1989 Chrysler TC | |
| Make | Caterham | Chrysler |
| Model | 1700 | TC |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1474 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2370 mm |
